How are my rates tracking?

Methodology

Local Governments employ varying methodologies to determine the components of their rates calculations. Providing a just comparison for the community to use as a benchmark for their circumstances is not a simple straightforward calculation and requires some degree of interpretation of the data in the public documents of local governments. To this end the rates and charges information presented for each Local Government has been compiled by independent financial analysis firm RJ Back and Associates. The information has been collated from a number of sources including annual budgets, annual reports, annual returns, public websites, industry reports and rating comparisons and direct checks with Local Government officers.

The methodology for the calculation of average residential rates as presented in the website for each Local Government has been determined as follows. The average value (GRV) is determined by adding values for assessments levied at the adopted rate in the $; multiplying the threshold minimum value (minimum rate divided by the rate in the $) by the number of assessments on the minimum; then adding the two values above and dividing by the total number of assessment in the first two parts. This value is used for each year until a revaluation occurs and a new value is calculated. Generally the financial year 2013/14 provides the base year. The average rate is then determined by applying the rate in the $ against the value and adding the refuse charge. The increase in this average value is then presented for each Local Government.

In should be noted that results are confined to GRV assessments and not UV assessments and in consideration of the result presented for Chittering that the large increase in assessments for 2015/16 results from previous UV rated to GRV rated. The Council introduced a concession limiting the rate increase for those properties to $300 which distorts the results for 2015/16. In the result for Ngaanyatjarraku, data is yet provided for 2014/15 and 2015/16.

RATES

How are my rates calculated?

The rates paid on residential property is calculated based on the potential rental value of the premises and the operating requirements of the Council.

The rates you pay are a proportionate share of what is needed by the Council to provide local services and facilities.

That is, if your home has greater potential rental return than your neighbours, you will pay a higher share of the total rates budgeted by Council.

What if I disagree with my rates?

There are two options to query your rates:

Under the Local Government Act 1995 you have 42 days from the time the rates notice is issued to appeal your rates with the Council's Chief Executive Officer. If you do decide to query your rates you must still pay the full amount while it is being reviewed.

You can also appeal how the rental value of your property was calculated. This is the Gross Rental Value (GRV) determined by the Valuer General and as mentioned previously sets your share of what the Council requires. Your annual GRV - or annual potential rent for the property - is included on the rates notice. If you believe this is too high you can challenge this, for further please click here.

What can make my rates go up?

Your rates can increase if the Council requires more funds to provide local services and facilities. For example if it builds new facilities or adds services.

Rates can also increase if your property increases in potential rental value faster than others in your area. For example if you make improvements to your home that increase its rental value then your share of rates will increase.

Councils' budgets and consequently funds required through rates are also affected by changes by other sectors of Government. For example when the State Government increased its charges for power and added $280,000 to the street lighting bill that cost has to be met by Councils.

What is the Emergency Services Levy?

The State Government requires Councils to collect the Emergency Services Levy from ratepayers.

The funds raised go to the Department of Fire and Emergency Services. The funds do not go to Councils and the rate charged is not set by Councils.

Do pensioners get a discount on rates?

Pensioners with a valid seniors' or concession card are entitled to rates reductions depending on their status on Council rates, water charges and the Emergency Services Levy.

However from 1 July 2016, the State Government has capped rebate to pensioners at 50% of their rates up to $750.

Do I have to pay my rates all at once?

Councils understand that sometimes people experience financial hardship which makes it difficult to meet all of their financial commitments when they are due.

Please contact a Council Rates Officer to arrange a suitable payment arrangement to settle the rates debt by the end of the financial year.